Fatal Distracted Driving Accident Used to Curb Texting and Driving

Proctor, MN (NNCNOW.com)-- A campaign, designed to save lives from distracted driving, is using a badly damaged car from an accident in which a Northland high school student died.

16-year-old Haylie Samuelson lost her life last year after her vehicle swerved off the road and rolled several times near Hinckley. Authorities say Samuelson was not wearing a seatbelt, and was texting at the time of the crash.

"People might say it's a little bit of a scare tactic but if we have to use a scare tactic to save a life, then a scare tactic isn't going to scare anyone," said Proctor Police Chief Walter Wobig.

The car on display at Proctor High School is the latest attempt to curb distracted driving, which causes 20% of Minnesota crashes.

The Northeast Minnesota Toward Zero Death Steering Committee and Driving 4 Safe Communities Traffic Safety Coalition are joining forces with the Proctor High School Destination Imagination Team to bring the message to Duluth area schools.

The schedule is as follows:

• April 18 — Proctor High School• April 22 — East High School• April 23 — Denfeld High School• April 25 — Floodwood High School• April 26 — Marshall High School